GTI Asset Management and Trust Ltd. solidified a significant partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), aiming to enhance the commercial viability of the country’s longstanding FA Cup, Nigeria’s oldest domestic club competition. According to GTI’s Media Officer, Andrew Ekejiuba, this collaboration is expected to uplift the tournament’s appeal to potential sponsors and stakeholders.
In a statement released by Andrew Ekejiuba, the Media Officer of GTI, he emphasised the importance of this collaboration: “This partnership signifies a pivotal moment in elevating the commercial value of Nigeria’s FA Cup, aiming to attract substantial sponsorship and revitalise the tournament’s appeal.”
Ibrahim Gusau, the President of the NFF, expressed his commendation for GTI Group’s prior successes with the NPFL and the anticipated positive impact on the FA Cup: “We acknowledge GTI’s achievements with the NPFL and have high hopes that this partnership will significantly contribute to the development of the FA Cup.”
Mohammed Sanusi, the NFF General Secretary, highlighted the potential impact: “We’re delighted about this partnership as it holds the potential to significantly enhance our country’s football economy, potentially restoring the glory days of the Federation Cup.”
GTI’s Group Managing Director, Abubakar Lawal, emphasised their commitment to improving the FA Cup’s management and structure: “Our expertise and experience will elevate the management of the FA Cup. Stakeholders can anticipate an enhanced tournament structure and increased prize money starting from the 2023–2024 edition.”
Lawal further encouraged investment in football through the Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF): “We believe that over the first three years of this partnership, the FA Cup will evolve into a highly competitive tournament, appealing to investors. TNFF, registered by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), remains a crucial tool for football development in the country.”
The FA Cup, established in 1945, stands as Nigeria’s primary football single-elimination tournament, involving over 2,000 teams across the Federation and FCT’s 774 local governments. Since GTI’s strategic partnership with the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) in 2022, the financial institution has remained dedicated to restructuring the elite league and now extends its commitment to enhancing the FA Cup’s stature and appeal.
